The Lifestyle in Oman

Oman is officially known as the Sultanate of Oman. Located on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, this Arab country is located at the mouth of the Persian Gulf. Oman shares its borders with United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Yemen.

History of Oman

From the 6th century BC to the 7th century AD, Oman was either under the control or influence of the Persians. The Omanis were converted to Islam during the Expedition of Zaid ibn Haritha (Hisma).

The Portuguese arrived in Oman and occupied Muscat, the capital city, for over 140 years starting in 1507.

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Oman’s People

Arabic is the official language spoken in Oman. Other languages spoken in the country are English, Baluchi, Urdu and various Indian dialects.

Working in Oman

Life in Oman is very quiet compared to the hustle and bustle of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. Things in this country take their time to happen. The society is a very traditional one, where family comes first.

Muscat is a modern city, and has all the amenities that someone looking to relocate there would be looking for, with the exception of an active nightlife. The city has shopping, restaurants, sightseeing, cultural and heritage attractions, etc. It is home to a significant number of expatriates as well. A person who is single and looking for a place with an active nightclub scene will likely be disappointed after arriving in Muscat, but for families or those looking for a slower lifestyle, the city has much to offer.

Religious Beliefs

The official religion is Muslim. The majority of the population (approximately 86 percent) are Ibadhi, although some Omanis are Sunni and Shia. Christians make up approximately seven percent of the population, Hindus six percent, Buddhists less than one percent, and Jews less than 0.1 percent.

Oman Cuisine

Rice is the main ingredient used in Omani cuisine. It is cooked along with beef, chicken, fish, goat or mutton. The meat may be prepared by roasting, baking or grilling after being marinated in a variety of spices, such as cinnamon, cumin, ginger, pepper, turmeric, cardamon and saffron. The flavors are blended in a manner so that they produce a subtle taste, as opposed to one that is “hot and spicy.”

The traditional way to eat a meal is with the right hand. The main meal is served at midday, and the evening meal is usually lighter. Salads are kept simple, and are prepared with lettuce, tomatoes and cucumber served with a slice of lime as the dressing.

Maqbous is a saffron-colored rice dish that is cooked over spicy meat. Kebabs (meat served on skewers) are often served on flat bread (khoubz). Harees is a wheat-based dish prepared with chicken, tomatoes, onions and seasoning.

Halwa is a dessert made with eggs, water, palm honey sugars, ghee and almonds. It is flavored with cardamon and rosewater. The ingredients are blended and when cooked form a sweet block with a delicious flavor.

Coffee is an important part of the social ritual in Oman. The local blend is mild, and has a taste of saffron and cardamon. It is served black with no sugar. Dates are served along with the coffee, and are eaten between sips. If invited to have coffee, it is considered polite to drink about three cups. It is served in small cups, about the size of an egg.

Oman’s Economy

Due to the fact that Oman’s oil reserves are dwindling and the labor force is growing, the country has been working on a development plan focusing on industrialization, diversification and privatization. Tourism and natural gas-based industries are important parts of the government’s diversification plan.

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Traveling to Oman

Oman is a very beautiful country. The capital city of Muscat is situated in a valley surrounded by mountains and the sea. The effect is simply stunning, and visitors have access to some of the finest beaches in the region. The water is clear and the beaches are unspoilt.

During the summer showers season, the Dhofar region is worth exploring. The rest of the country is experiencing the hot summer sun, and this part of the country is engulfed in mist, with constant rain and drizzles soaking up the region.

Are you intrigued by the idea of visiting or working in Oman? The combination of beautiful scenery and a slow pace of life is an attractive one, both for taking a holiday and the possibility of employment. Whether you are considering entering the country for a short stay or planning to make it your home for a time, learning how to speak Arabic will give you a definite advantage.

Contact London Arabic Tuition today. We will prepare an individualized course of spoken Arabic study to fit your needs and goals.